Land's End Airport (LEQ)

Land's End Airport (EGHC/LEQ) serves as a vital transport link connecting mainland Cornwall with the Isles of Scilly. Despite its small scale, it plays a crucial role for both tourism and resident travel, providing the fastest year-round connection to the archipelago. The airport is primarily a functional gateway, offering a scenic and efficient alternative to the seasonal ferry service from Penzance.

First opened in 1937 for services to the Isles of Scilly, the airport has a long history intertwined with the region's transport network. For decades, it operated with grass runways, making flights highly susceptible to weather conditions. A significant milestone occurred in 2012 when it was acquired by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, which also operates the ferry. This led to a major upgrade, culminating in the completion of paved runways in 2014, substantially improving the airport's operational reliability and all-weather capabilities.

Situated near the town of St Just in Penwith, the airport is approximately five miles west of Penzance. Its location near the westernmost tip of Cornwall makes it easily accessible by road via the A30. Travelers typically arrive by car or pre-booked taxi. A dedicated shuttle bus service also connects the airport with the Penzance railway station, providing a convenient link for those arriving by train. On-site car parking is available for a fee.

Operations at Land's End are exclusively domestic, with all scheduled flights directed to St Mary's Airport (ISC) on the Isles of Scilly. The sole scheduled airline is Isles of Scilly Skybus, which operates a fleet of small aircraft, including De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otters and Britten-Norman BN-2 Islanders. The airport handles approximately 60,000 passengers annually. Due to its coastal location, flights can sometimes be subject to delays or cancellations caused by sea fog or high winds.

The facilities are modest and reflect the airport's small size. A single, compact terminal building houses a check-in desk, a small departure lounge, and basic amenities. A café is located on-site, offering light meals and refreshments with views over the airfield. There are no large retail shops or executive lounges.

For those traveling from Land's End Airport, it is advisable to arrive approximately one hour before the scheduled departure time. Baggage allowances are strictly enforced and are typically lower than those of major airlines, so passengers should check their limit beforehand. Given the potential for weather disruptions, it is wise to have flexible onward travel plans. Pre-booking taxis is highly recommended, especially during peak season.